Best New Rec Center (2001)

The North Jeffco Parks and Recreation District opened what it claims is the largest municipal recreation center in the nation this past summer. And we're not about to argue: Apex Center's 168,000 square feet encompass two indoor ice rinks, a therapy pool, an indoor walking and running track, indoor water-play pools, a lap pool, three gyms and a weight room. And don't forget the snack bar and locker rooms and the decor that brings the Colorado outdoors in through window walls, murals and indoor plantings. The whole $28 million facility is designed to accommodate 2,500 people per day.